Abstract: Energy savings are attained by employing an organic liquid such as fuel oil as a glass batch wetting agent. Also, inclusion of fuel oil in a sulfur-containing glass batch yields improved melting rates.

Abstract: In a multiport combustion furnace having a plurality of firing ports in undivided communication with a common source of combustion gas or air, the invention provides a method and apparatus for selective control of combustion air flow into one or more of the ports. A small quantity of pressurized gas, e.g. air, is injected, e.g. by way of a flow control pipe in an individual port, generally along the flow path of combustion air through the port to alter the amount of combustion air flowing into the port for mixing with fuel. Combustion air is increased by injecting air cocurrent with the combustion air flow to induce additional flow into the port. Combustion air is decreased by injecting air countercurrent to the flow to impede flow through the port.

Abstract: A device for sensing the oxygen content in exhaust gases in a regenerative furnace for evaluating combustion efficiency includes an oxygen probe and conduit cast in a ceramic block. Water moved through the conduit provides structural stability to the ceramic block and protects the probe against thermal damage.

Abstract: Apparatus for making holes through a layer of glass batch to enhance run-off of liquid includes a plurality of tapered members adapted for vertical reciprocation to penetrate the batch layer. At least a lower portion of each member is provided with a three-dimensioned shape corresponding generally to the shape of a hole to be produced in the batch layer, the shape having a relatively wide upper portion and a relatively narrow lower portion with tapering side surfaces therebetween oriented to produce lateral compaction of batch upon vertical insertion into the batch layer.At least a lower portion of each member is provided with a three-dimensional shape corresponding generally to the shape of a hole to be produced in the batch layer, the shape having a relatively wide upper portion and a relatively narrow lower portion with tapering side surfaces therebetween oriented to produce lateral compacting of batch upon vertical insertion into the batch layer.